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For most yard cleanup, though, an electric weed whacker is sufficient.
The Spruce
While not nearly as strong as metal blades, these do a good job on softer weeds and grasses.
Most weed whackers use a thin, rapidly spinning plastic cord to cut grass and weeds.
Its 5.5-amp motor runs smoothly and quietly and has enough power to quickly cut through grass and non-woody weeds.
PHOTO: Homedepot
The 0.095-inch heavy-duty string advances with a bump of the tool against the ground.
Two-stroke (or two-cycle) weed whackers are lighter and easier to maintain than four-stroke models.
They also typically have more power.
PHOTO: Amazon
Four-stroke (or four-cycle) models, on the other hand, are quieter and produce fewer emissions.
However, four-stroke weed whackers are pricier.
The cutting width of the weed whacker adjusts from 14 to 16 inches.
PHOTO: Homedepot
Either way, you’re able to reload the string reel in just a few seconds.
When the string gets short during use, just bump the trimmer against the ground to advance more string.
In fact, it’s three tools in one: edger, string trimmer, and lawnmower.
PHOTO: Home Depot
It’s especially good for mowing on slopes or hills where atraditional lawnmowercan be hard to maneuver.
The string trimmer uses a 0.065-inch string and offers a 12-inch cutting swath.
For use as a mower, the trimmer simply snaps into the mower base.
PHOTO: Amazon
It has a 17-inch cutting swath and can be converted for use with metal blades instead of string.
TheRyobi 10-Amp Attachment-Capable Corded String Trimmerhas an 18-inch cutting swath and great power.
Todays cordless weed whackers have good power, although not as much as a gas-powered model.
Still, they have more than enough oomph to maintain a small to medium-sized lawn.
For many people, thats all thats needed to get the job done.
Some higher-end weed whackers have adjustable cutting swaths that let you go up or down a couple of inches.
Vibration can be an issue with many weed whackers, especially gas-powered models.
You dont want to be tired out before you finish your edging or trimming.
As a general rule, electric weed whackers tend to be quite a bit lighter than gas-powered models.
Gas weed whackers generally weigh between 12 and 18 pounds.
However, you should always wear closed shoes, long pants, and eye protection when using these tools.
Straight or Curved Shaft: Which is Best for You?
There are two basic styles of weed whacker shafts: straight and curved.
However, straight shafts give you more reach and can be extended underneath shrubs or fences.
and that’s why we opted to include only straight shaft string trimmers on our list.
For heavier weeds, brush, or tough grass, string that’s between 0.085-inches and 0.110-inches is required.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written byMichelle Ullman, who specializes in home and garden products.
California OKs phaseout of gasoline powered lawn mowers and leaf blowers.LA Times
